Be it the first day of kindergarten or otherwise, drop-offs can be a very emotional time for your child. Both parents and kids tend to get a little overwhelmed because of the separation anxiety, and some sniffles here and there are quite commonplace.

That said, there's quite a bit you can do as a parent, and especially as you say goodbye, that can make the experience a little less emotive for both you and your child.

1. Always Say Goodbye

Some parents always make a run for it just to avoid seeing their little ones in tears, or they will wait until the kids are distracted and make a dash for the car. Turning around only to find Mum or Dad gone will leave your child with a lot of anxiety and feeling distressed throughout the day. Where did Mommy go? Why didn't she say goodbye?

If you fail to properly say goodbye, your child may think that you are just around the corner and haven't really left. They will distractedly look out the window trying to find you, and that will take away from the concentration that they should be putting towards class activities.

Needless to say, it will be a very long day at kindergarten for your child should you decide to sneak away and not properly say goodbye.

2. Create a Fun Goodbye Ritual

Instead of a cold and matter-of-fact whisper of "goodbye", you can find fun ways to say goodbye to your child, and that will definitely make it a lot easier for him/her. You can work on a special handshake at home, stick to the same sweet phrase every day or whatever else you can come up with. These fun traditions will warm your child and bring a smile to their faces, and in that moment they will even forget that you have to leave.

3. Kiss and Go. Don't Linger

After saying goodbye, and only after saying goodbye, make a quick exit. Don't linger around watching your child settle into the first activity of the day. You have done your part; it's now time to hand over the reins to the caregivers and teachers at the kindergarten.

Separation is hard and that final goodbye can be especially difficult for your child. It may be a while, but after some time and with these and more tips, drop-offs at kindergarten will become easier for your child.

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